Career Corner: How to Quit Your Job

I quit placard in hand with crumpled paper pile
Image via iStock.

With the current state of the job market, people are much more willing to leave their current role to pursue new opportunities.

It has become so common that it has been dubbed the “Great Resignation”. And while those new opportunities can be exciting to fantasize about, quitting is still never a decision to make lightly.

The Washington Post had a new article on the subject, outlining the facets to each situation worthy of considering before you put in your notice. And speaking of which, that piece of advice still applies: make sure to give two weeks’ notice.

When you are fed up it can be tempting to just abandon ship, but once that fleeting emotional spurt passes, you will realize you have made a decision that could hurt you.

If you leave your employer in the lurch on the way out, don’t expect them to speak highly of you when prospective jobs ask about you.

Stay level-headed, remain professional, and let your boss know you are planning to leave.

You also don’t need to make some big production out of your reasons. Management would not give you a monologue before replacing you, so just keep things simple and avoid mentioning any grievances.

Simply stating that you have found a new opportunity you wish to pursue is sufficient.

And the most important step to think about before resigning is do you really need to quit? Do you want to leave because you have been dissatisfied for a long time now? Or is it just fleeting pandemic stress making you feel overwhelmed? If it is the latter, even a new workplace could have you feeling the same before long.

Maybe all you need is a talk with your manager to see if some compromises can be reached on work conditions. They might not budge, but they might also surprise you.

Whatever you decide, make sure you have a plan for after quitting. Having a new position secured is always wise, especially if your insurance is provided by your work. Don’t just assume the job market you knew before the pandemic will be as easy to navigate now that so much has changed.

For more considerations to make before leaving your current position, read the Washington Post piece here.

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MCCC

Montgomery County Community College, the sponsor of MONTCO.Today’s Career Corner offers more than 100 associate’s degree and certificate programs at the college’s Blue Bell, Pottstown, The Culinary Arts Institute in Lansdale campuses, and online.

Funded by Montgomery County, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and student tuition, Montgomery County Community college offers a high-quality, affordable, accessible education that leads to relevant, rewarding transfer and career opportunities.

Take advantage of all the College has to offer — from challenging educational and professional development opportunities to stimulating activities and cultural programs. Their doors are always open.

Learn more about the College’s degrees and programs or plan an in-person visit to get a firsthand look at the College’s state-of-the-art facilities and friendly campus life. 

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